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Hi. I am going to Paris in September. I really want to go to a flea market. If I can only pick one where should I go. It needs to be outside. And I like little boxes, leather goods, antiques, little artsy stuff. Thank you.
I live in Paris suburbs and she's right. Just wake up and explore. Doesnt matter which neighbourhood you've picked, there will always be parks, gardens, museums, boulangerie for a snack, café for Coffee/tea or beer during the happy hour. It's really up to you.
She said to have breakfast at a bakery, I am a Celiac (gluten intolerant) so I can't eat anything at a bakery. So I struggle with eating food in when traveling. 😪
Im from Belgium Anvers and it’s kinda close so that’s exactly what me and my dad did for 3 days on a long weekend and we accidentally went into an amazing restaurant ( Thai market next to the louvre ) I wanted to show it tho my mom and searched it on google maps and it was a 5 star restaurant 😅❤❤super delicious highly recommend !!!
I visited Paris with a friend and my sister many years ago (actually, almost 20 years ago!!). I remember we were in Montparnasse station with our backpacks, looking for the right platform for a regional line. This lady came up to us and asked if we needed help. She took us as far as she could towards our platform and explained what to do (validating tickets and so on). When I tell people about our experience, some are surprised and others commented "probably not a Parisienne". Regardless, I have nothing but great experience in France. I am planning a trip for 2025 so I will be watching a lot of these videos. Thank you Lucile. So glad I found this channel.
Many people are insecure and highly prejudiced. The whole majority of the tourists in Paris not only are repeated tourists but they had a great experience and want to go back.
@@LucileHR I am American, and when we first went to Paris, we were worried about the "rude" French stereotype that we'd heard about. I never encountered it. I have, since that first visit, interacted with probably 200 Parisians and been met with nothing but kindness and offers of help when my wife and I have looked lost. Of course, we always remember we are guests in their beautiful country and start conversations with "Bonjour" and attempt to request items with our very limited vocabulary. I think it all begins with trying to be a good guest. Hoping to return again this summer!
Same thing happen to my and my wife in Gare de Lyon lost looking for train to Fontainebleau. Showed how to work the ticket machine and where to stand. Amusingly my wife after we got there and took the tour said no wonder France had a Revolution.
I was fortunate to live in Paris for 4 months back in 1995 when I was a teacher for a study abroad program. I wasn’t paid much for the job; however, I was given a “Professor’s card” which gave me free entry to most all of the museums in Paris. Every day after class, I walked around Paris, typically going into at least one museum. I walked so much in those 4 months that I wore through a pair of shoes. My favorite museum was the the Musee D’Orsay, L’Orangerie, and the Paris film museum. I got to go to the Louvre at least 4 times. I loved all the parks and thought Buttes Charmont was the most dramatic. I got by with my high school French, bought a scarf so I would blend in, and tried to stay off the beaten path as much as possible. I lived in the Maria’s District and taught at Cite Universite in the 14th arrondisement. It was definitely one of the most magical times of my life. Thank you for a reminder of those days.
I first visited Paris in 1986, en route to a year of studying (skiing) in Chambéry. I knew virtually no French, but people were mostly kind. I returned many times that year to meet friends and relatives coming dor their French experience, and Paris never failed to please everyone. A few years later, my wife and I returned for our honeymoon. We apent a lot of time in Paris before hitchhiking across the country to Chambéry, Basel Switzerland, Venice, back to England, then Paris again. It was more than two months and, in retrospect, an insane thing to do, but we sure had fun. We've been back a couple of times since with our children and once for my work. Every time I found the Paresiens to be helpful and friendly. We're about to leave Chambéry for five days in the 11th Arrondissement, and I can't wait. By the way, we've always traveled in spring or fall, and we've never had to spend an outrageous amount of money. We go out to eat some and eat in our airbnb or hotel some. And we hang out in the neighborhood, only venturing out to tourist areas now and then. I don't consider us to be experts on Paris, but we've never had a bad visit.
For me, a boat tour on the Seine is a great way to see a lot of beautiful architecture in a relaxing way especially if you've already done a lot of walking, and you see things from a completely different pov. Also, you can get on/off tours.
Thank you for making me feel good about never having gone up the Eiffel tower despite having gone to Paris three times 😊 I fell in love with the city just wandering and exploring on foot.
I’ve been to Paris at least a dozen times. First time was 1970 and I fell in love with the city and that has not changed since that first visit. The last 4 or 5 visits, we have stayed at a small, cozy family owned hotel in the 5th and will stay there again. We are usually the only Americans there. We avoid the tourist areas and find restaurants where locals dine and have had amazing meals and wine. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous. Thanks Lucile!
I couldn't agree more. Slow down, be nice, say hello, have a picnic, walk or take the metro. Be excited about what you see, talk to the shop keeps, ask questions and try something out of your comfort zone. That's the fun bit!
Absolutely perfectly true and well said! I spent about 10 days in Paris around 2018. Despite so many friends recommendations to visit monuments, museums and other places of interest, I went with my gut. Made zero plans. Met locals. They were very friendly and helpful to say the least! In that short period of time I made two friends (one is Parisienne), became a regular at a great little coffee shop, frequented (food) markets with local produce/meats/cheeses etc. Cooked most of my own meals. Went with the flow and stayed open minded to experiences. Basically immersed myself in the local scene and didn’t visit one monument/museum/point of interest. One of the best travel experiences! Beautiful generous people and a romantic city whether you go it alone, with a friend/significant other, or you find someone while you’re there. ❤
Great advice. One thing I would add is to take the buses. Not the tourist buses, just the regular bus. If you are older and can't walk as much, you can take the bus from neighborhood to neighborhood and see more of Paris than on the Metro. We moved to France, in part to be closer to Paris (Nimes) and have been there three times since we came 18 months ago. We stay in the Port Orleans district. Not particularly cute but right near buses that go everywhere and the hotel is lovely and very reasonably priced.
We were in PARIS for 48 hours Last weekend! 😍 We stayed at the LOVELY 'Hotel Monge' in the Latin Quarter. It was wonderful and we really made the most of out two days!
This is the 3rd video I have watched from Lucile and I love them all. Lots of great information told with humor and great backgrounds. And not so long that you waster your time in gory detail, like some people who seem to get paid by the minute. Keep up the great work, Lucile.
I went to Bouillon Pigalle when I was in Paris a month ago! My Airbnb host recommended it to me. I was able to get dinner pretty late in the evening, and the food was great!
Lucile, your channel is a breath of FRESH Air. Your soulful descriptions of Parisian life beckons the weary traveler and bolsters one's confidence to embrace Le Joie de Vie. 😘
Just got back from Paris last week and I 100% agree with you. A lot of tourists think they have to visit all the famous places in Paris. But the best part of Paris is the experience of the city itself. Walking around the neighbourhoods, spending your afternoon while drinking coffee at a small cafe - Trust me, you'll enjoy those small moments way more than the moment you saw the Eiffel Tower or the Monalisa at Louvre. If you are a foodie, then one street I will highly recommend is Cour du Commerce Saint-Andre. It’s a historical street full of restaurants. It’s often very crowded with both tourists and locals. The restaurants there require reservation due to high demand and also a bit expensive (around 30-40 €). But if you want to have best food in Paris, I'd highly recommend this place. And also WALK.. As much as you can! That's one of the best parts...
This is really recommendable to all who visit Paris First time! I swear. These are totally I have done in Paris. I only have beautiful memory of Paris. walk, walk, drink coffee, eat baguette, just take look around everything.. I will visit again soon and I will do this again.
This is the very first time I've ever wanted to visit Paris. These are all the things I love to do... walk around and explore, hang out in parks, enjoy good food and art, avoid crowds and noise.
LOL, I'm a Brit but i lived in Paris when I was a student many, many years ago. And I said the same thing as you about the Eiffel Tower: the best thing about being on it is that you can't see it! That said, I lived high up in the Latin Quarter and I could see the top quarter of it from my window, and it was still cool to see it lit up at night, especially when they had the full searchlight thing going on.
I'm parisian and lived in this city, and I do agree, take your time, sit where you want to and enjoy. Specially for the bakeries. You can add Canal Saint Martin in spring and summer at he end of the afternoon. Take cheese, wine and have a good time
As a long-time Paris resident, I find that you give better advice than any of the sites done by Americans or the British that I have seen. You are the only one that mentions Bouillon Chartier. I avoid the center of the Marais except for the gardens as there are too many people and it lost its original character long ago. A lot of streets have lost their character as traditional commerce has been replaced by trendy clothes stores, chain stores, etc and are now virtual deserts. Two areas to avoid are Place St. Michel and the Champs-Elysées, just awful. The parks Montsouris and Buttes-Chaumont I enjoy very much. I also take visitors to Musée d'Orsay. Of course they first want to see the Post-Impressionists, so we go straight to the 5th floor. I try to interest them in Vuillard and Bonnard lower down too, but I insist on going to see Courbet. They like the large paintings, but I like to see their reaction to "Origine du Monde".
I loved seeing the city of Paris from the top of the Eiffel tower. Seeing the layout of the city streets, the architecture of the Many buildings packed in, the distance points of interest, the river. It was wonderful. On a clear day you can see so much. Getting food at local cafes, bakery's and markets was awesome.
I live in NYC and walk a lot every day and love your recommendations not to overdue and go crazy to see touristy places. Long lines and a lot of tourists kill the beauty of the attraction to me. I will recommend the same to people who wants to visit NYC too, walk a lot and you will discover the gems. Pick a neighborhood and explore. I'll be in paris in two weeks and looking forward to walk, eat and take it easy
Love your video Lucile! I've been to Paris a couple of times as a solo female. I'd been told a lot of negative stuff about Paris & advised not to go. But let me say, all I encountered was friendly & helpful people in every situation (including for business). First trip I stayed in the Marais & the 2nd on Grande Boulevarde. Food was incredible and cheaper when you go off the beaten track & stay away from touristic hubs. My absolute favourite part of town is Mont Martre (the other side). I must say though, that the beauty of Paris is not looking at it from a distance where all you really see are roof tops, but from close up where you see the intricacies of the magnificent architecture or the potted geraniums trailing across a balcony. It is truly a special place.
Having been living in Paris for a year now, I still enjoy Eiffel, I still take pics of it, however far nicer is the Seine, def à nice treasure! I walk 8-12 km a day and don’t even notice it. I’m def over all the museums. Well worth mentioning is the kangaroos in jardin des plants. I’ve made friends with my local shop owners and make an effort to eat French food. I absolutely love Paris.
How things have changed in Paris since I was a child. You are correct that the streets are pretty empty in the morning. But growing up, the shopkeepers would open at dawn, close for three to four hours in the afternoon, and then open in the late afternoon and stay open until about 8pm. Also back then almost all the shops were literally open in the front. The charcuterie, the boucherie, the fromagerie. The only shops which always had a curtain wall front were the boulangeries. About French onion soup, which in France is just called soupe à l'oignon. It is already French by virtue of it being served in France. So for decades it was common to go to Au Pied de Couchon right next to Les Halles after going to the opera (back then it was always at the Palais Garnier). Les Halles was where the vendors from all over Paris would go to purchase or pick up their produce to sell at their stand, or venue. It was open all night and Au Pied de Couchon was also open all night at least until Les Halles stopped being to place to distribute produce. That function has been moved to the suburbs. They don't stay open 24 hours now, but close. They are open until 5am! So what did Au Pied de Couchon serve all these opera goers? Soup à l'oignon. And it is GOOD there! I suspect that French onion soup originated as food for peasants, but since it is so good, became part of the French lexicon of great food.
Love that you encourage people to relax and enjoy the surroundings. That is my favorite way to travel. Rick Steves shares this philosophy. I found him to provide good info when I worked and travelled in Europe for a year. I would recommend a guidebook by Rick Steves that I believe is titled “Paris through the back door” (maybe?!) that focuses on non tourist places. It is worth checking out. He also gives really good recommendations for where to stay, how to pack light etc
As a Londoner I could give exactly the same advice as you gave for Paris, by just swapping out the locations, restaurants, museums. It is funny we locals never seem to visit our own tourist destinations. I did not visit the Tower of London until I was 56.
I really appreciate the video. Coming to Paris in September for the first time in almost 40 years. My wife has never been so I am excited to show her what I remember. We are planning to visit the Louvre and take in a show at the Opera Bastille; the rest of our 4 days will be free form, looking for the small shops and restaurants to experience Paris like Parisian. Thanks again for the advice.
Great tips. We just came back from 3 days in Paris and had to flee from the Quartier latin area due to the streams of tourists. Jardin du Luxembourg was such a nice haven and to sit near the fountain and watch people come by (Parisian families, old lonely ladies, couples, secret lovers) was the best part of our trip honestly. Had those beautiful green chairs been placed in Amsterdam, they would not have been there anymore the next morning; I really wonder how it is possible that they aren't stolen from this lovely park. Then we had really been looking forward to a Sunday Musée d'Orsay afternoon, but were shocked by the lines when arriving there. I don't recall ever having dealt with such lines during precious visits. Just tourists, tourists and more tourists. Luckily we stayed in Batignolles and really liked it there. Local people, a nice Sunday morning flea market, easy transport to the inner city. Next time we will definitely stay in nice arrondissements away from the city center again.
As a veteran tourist, if you really want to see the Mona Lisa, start your day early. Buy your ticket and head straight for the painting. We do that whenever visiting a museum that has a “signature piece” and it works every time. In the Louvre, we were standing in front of the Mona Lisa 10 minutes after the museum opened. We spend almost 20 minutes where it was just my sister and I, and another couple. Then we spent the rest of the day (almost) enjoying beautiful art at the museum.
I just came back from Paris and saw this video a bit too late. Surprisingly I find myself doing most of the things in your video. I especially enjoy a few hours walking around Pere Lachaise neighbourhood and ended with a nice dinner in Ménilmontant area.
Thanks for the tips! I went a few weeks ago and it was great! We walked at least 6 miles or 10km every day and I even got a chance to run 10 miles or 16km along the Seine to take in all the sights along the way…lots to see on foot so you’ll never feel like walking is a major hassle in Paris
I am German and I love my dark wholegrain bread. But for breakfast or some kind of pre-breakfast, I prefer a black coffee and some sweet pastry. Sugar and caffeine in the morning just hits differently.
Visit in late autumn Christmas, which is is even better. No crowds. Beautiful decorations. Lower hotel prices. And everyone looks chic in winter wear; no one looks chic in cargo shorts with a fanny pack. The big department stores go overboard with their decorations.
Great video. I basically done this my last visit to Paris but we were in the 5th. It was amazing, plenty of food in Rue Mouffetard both in the mornings and evenings. Very historical but very vibrant.
You’re really in love with your home town. I love that 😊. I just realized that it’s about 30 years since I was in Paris as a student 😮. Need to get an update.
Thank you so much! I'll be solo backpacking Europe at the end of April, arriving in Amsterdam before Kings Day. Super nervous but also excited. Really going to take my time and enjoy everything. From public transport to little shops. Absorb as much culture as I can.
This video is totally my vibe. Any chance of one specifically about the sort of smaller galleries/museums you recommended as an alternative to the vastness and busy-ness of the Louvre? Please :-)
I like checking specific exibitions at le musée du luxembourg, l'atelier des lumières, quai branly, fondation Louis Vuitton. There's many independent galleries too, but I'm not knowledgeable enough to make a recommendation!
When I came to Paris, I didn't even bother with the Louvre. I visited the Musee d'Orsay. Which was amazing. But the best museum imho was the Musee Marmottan-Monet. While the Musee d'Orsay is in an old, rebuilt train station, the Musee Marmottan is basically an old Villa. A Villa that is full of Monet paintings. They must have at least half of his water lily paintings there. It's my number one recommendation if you're into impressionist art like I am.
I'm finally making my first tip to France this summer, a day tip to Lille from Belgium. Super excited. No plans, just walk around and take it all in. It'll be my third time in Europe. One day I'll spend some time in Paris, probably off-season when it's not as crowded.
Agreed that Le Louvre is huge, crowded, and overwhelming for a short stay, and that a different museum might be more suitable. Musée d'Orsay is a good alternative for an art museum, but I'd also recommend La Musée de l'Armée (Les Invalides) for anyone who's into military history. It's one of the largest and best military history museums in the world, in a huge former palace, tickets are inexpensive, it's not too crowded, and there's an unbelievable amount of ground to cover because as we all know, the French were the dominant military power on the continent for centuries. I've never seen so many medieval and early modern arms and armor in one place before.
It is so true! I am French and live in Florida and only went to the Eiffel Tower once as a little kid. I never cared about it until I moved to Orlando😂. I think it is overrated in my opinion but I do appreciate it more now that I live in the U.S. I never had onion soup until I went to a French restaurant at EPCOT😂. I love my pain au jambon et fromage en France seulement and much more good pastries😁Great video! Thank you.
Lucile I’m so thrilled I found you. I am due in Paris on Oct 26th with a group of fellow artists with our art coach! This will be my first time to Paris! By the way I am a Lucille also with two l’s. Most people call me Lucy though. Thx for the great tips! I hope to walk everywhere as I have no idea how to use the transit system there. Agh! . A little nervous about that! Anyway, thanks for the great channel!
Going to be visiting Paris in 2 weeks from Australia. The tips you have on your channel have been a massive help in giving us ideas for things to do , so thank you :-)
Thanks for this video! I don't think I would want to go to Paris and be walking shoulder to shoulder with alot of tourists. It's nice to know where the great out of the way places are. ❤
love the videos and channel. Live in nyc but have been to Paris many times and what you say is so true. Best walking city in the world. Even better than New York. Merci beaucoup. Love Montmarte it’s such a cool neighborhood.
Great tips. I do have to say that if you are going to visit the Eiffel Tower- and nearly everyone does- you might as well go to the top and say you have done the whole thing.
I sometimes go for a day to Paris and love it, I love the Batignolles and plaine Monceau area. I try to do one museum in the area where I am, and sit at a nice restaurant for lunch. Chez Janou near Pl Des Vosges is one of my favorites as I do not like the Chartiers. I was able to rent an 'Appart' for six months in the Canal St Martin area, and loved both the flat and the area. Visited many of Paris nooks and crannies, never tire of the city.
I will visit Paris for the first time next month with my College. I'm so happy I discovered your channel due to Bobby. Keep the good work and thank you for all of the content!
À notre dernière visite de Paris en famille (nous sommes Québécois), nous avions une superbe boulangerie en face de notre Hôtel, la Maison Marnay. Tous les matins, petit déjeuner au croissants jambon fromage ou pains au chocolat, délicieux, et très abordable. Je recommande vivement... 😁
Guy Maupassant said he and his friends liked to have lunch underneath the Eiffel Tower because it was the only place in the city where you didn't have to look at it.
The places Lucille are so beautiful, me I would walk everywhere because I don't want to miss anything.and I would gain so much weight and then I would walk it all off.thank you for taken me on a wonderful journey in Paris .
I really really loved your video and the chill vibe you bring with it :) to really experience instead of hurry hurry hurry through the big crowds! I want to make you aware that the sponsor you’ve chosen has kind of a bad record of not really providing quality care, so you might want to look into that - cause I see you mean well :)
Hi Lucile I just love your content its been the best in my research for Paris. Unfortunately we didnt realise we booked 3 nights in Paris 8 days before the Olympics so its going to be crazy busy, so research and booking as much as we can in advance is going to be key for a smooth Trip. The hotel we booked happens to be Batignolles near the Rome subway station, so im just loving all your local reccommendations are so close to our hotel!
Why the food portion is so small based on American standards. When I was in Paris some times I had to have two dinners for the night! One in the evening and late night when I became hungry again. But walked and loved every corner of Paris. I agree, just walking on the streets are pleasant experience.
love this! My spouse and I will be in the city of lights for just two night during the opening ceremonies but have no plans to attend them. We will be staying on the left bank. Please give us advice for our 48 hours considering we will be there during the likely most busy time. Thank you for this beautiful advice of the video! merci!
Allô Lucile! J'ai hâte de visiter durant les temps des fêtes 🎉 We will be staying in Strasbourg for the first 4 days then I love the feel of Batignolle so we found a beautiful small apartment near Clichy street. I'm a girl who loves design/fashion and good food. Lots of love from Quebec ❤ merci beaucoup pour tout. P.S I will be booking a reservation at Bien Élevé
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Hi. I am going to Paris in September. I really want to go to a flea market. If I can only pick one where should I go. It needs to be outside. And I like little boxes, leather goods, antiques, little artsy stuff. Thank you.
And jewelry of course!
I live in Paris suburbs and she's right. Just wake up and explore. Doesnt matter which neighbourhood you've picked, there will always be parks, gardens, museums, boulangerie for a snack, café for Coffee/tea or beer during the happy hour. It's really up to you.
She said to have breakfast at a bakery, I am a Celiac (gluten intolerant) so I can't eat anything at a bakery. So I struggle with eating food in when traveling.
😪
@@hollyweigel3240 I see. For sure it requires some research before traveling but there's definitely some gluten free boulangerie in Paris.
Im from Belgium Anvers and it’s kinda close so that’s exactly what me and my dad did for 3 days on a long weekend and we accidentally went into an amazing restaurant ( Thai market next to the louvre ) I wanted to show it tho my mom and searched it on google maps and it was a 5 star restaurant 😅❤❤super delicious highly recommend !!!
I visited Paris with a friend and my sister many years ago (actually, almost 20 years ago!!). I remember we were in Montparnasse station with our backpacks, looking for the right platform for a regional line. This lady came up to us and asked if we needed help. She took us as far as she could towards our platform and explained what to do (validating tickets and so on). When I tell people about our experience, some are surprised and others commented "probably not a Parisienne". Regardless, I have nothing but great experience in France. I am planning a trip for 2025 so I will be watching a lot of these videos. Thank you Lucile. So glad I found this channel.
Oh that's so nice of this lady! Montparnasse can be confusing! Happy you found this channel too, welcome here :)
Many people are insecure and highly prejudiced. The whole majority of the tourists in Paris not only are repeated tourists but they had a great experience and want to go back.
@@LucileHR I am American, and when we first went to Paris, we were worried about the "rude" French stereotype that we'd heard about. I never encountered it. I have, since that first visit, interacted with probably 200 Parisians and been met with nothing but kindness and offers of help when my wife and I have looked lost. Of course, we always remember we are guests in their beautiful country and start conversations with "Bonjour" and attempt to request items with our very limited vocabulary. I think it all begins with trying to be a good guest. Hoping to return again this summer!
Same thing happen to my and my wife in Gare de Lyon lost looking for train to Fontainebleau. Showed how to work the ticket machine and where to stand. Amusingly my wife after we got there and took the tour said no wonder France had a Revolution.
You are welcome in Paris, and even some « Parisian »will help you :)
Don’t bother too much about our internal rivalry in France and enjoy the country…
I was fortunate to live in Paris for 4 months back in 1995 when I was a teacher for a study abroad program. I wasn’t paid much for the job; however, I was given a “Professor’s card” which gave me free entry to most all of the museums in Paris. Every day after class, I walked around Paris, typically going into at least one museum. I walked so much in those 4 months that I wore through a pair of shoes. My favorite museum was the the Musee D’Orsay, L’Orangerie, and the Paris film museum. I got to go to the Louvre at least 4 times. I loved all the parks and thought Buttes Charmont was the most dramatic. I got by with my high school French, bought a scarf so I would blend in, and tried to stay off the beaten path as much as possible. I lived in the Maria’s District and taught at Cite Universite in the 14th arrondisement. It was definitely one of the most magical times of my life. Thank you for a reminder of those days.
What a wonderful memory!
Do you have a blog? If you ever write a book I'd love to read it! Amazing experience. ❤
I'm in my 50s and never went to Paris! I will go soon! I'm vacationing in Europe every year finally : )
I first visited Paris in 1986, en route to a year of studying (skiing) in Chambéry. I knew virtually no French, but people were mostly kind. I returned many times that year to meet friends and relatives coming dor their French experience, and Paris never failed to please everyone. A few years later, my wife and I returned for our honeymoon. We apent a lot of time in Paris before hitchhiking across the country to Chambéry, Basel Switzerland, Venice, back to England, then Paris again. It was more than two months and, in retrospect, an insane thing to do, but we sure had fun. We've been back a couple of times since with our children and once for my work. Every time I found the Paresiens to be helpful and friendly. We're about to leave Chambéry for five days in the 11th Arrondissement, and I can't wait. By the way, we've always traveled in spring or fall, and we've never had to spend an outrageous amount of money. We go out to eat some and eat in our airbnb or hotel some. And we hang out in the neighborhood, only venturing out to tourist areas now and then. I don't consider us to be experts on Paris, but we've never had a bad visit.
For me, a boat tour on the Seine is a great way to see a lot of beautiful architecture in a relaxing way especially if you've already done a lot of walking, and you see things from a completely different pov. Also, you can get on/off tours.
And the taxi boat is free
Thank you for making me feel good about never having gone up the Eiffel tower despite having gone to Paris three times 😊 I fell in love with the city just wandering and exploring on foot.
If you go in late winter, the lines are not long at all. Plus, don’t bother going to the top. The deuxième étage has the best views.
Don't worry, I'm French, 42, I've been to Paris so many times I cannot count and never gone up the Eiffel Tower.
The best view of Paris might be from the Arc De Triomphe
So don’t be sorry about the Eiffel Tower ❤
I’ve been to Paris at least a dozen times. First time was 1970 and I fell in love with the city and that has not changed since that first visit. The last 4 or 5 visits, we have stayed at a small, cozy family owned hotel in the 5th and will stay there again. We are usually the only Americans there. We avoid the tourist areas and find restaurants where locals dine and have had amazing meals and wine. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous.
Thanks Lucile!
I couldn't agree more. Slow down, be nice, say hello, have a picnic, walk or take the metro. Be excited about what you see, talk to the shop keeps, ask questions and try something out of your comfort zone. That's the fun bit!
🎯 perfect
Absolutely perfectly true and well said! I spent about 10 days in Paris around 2018. Despite so many friends recommendations to visit monuments, museums and other places of interest, I went with my gut. Made zero plans. Met locals. They were very friendly and helpful to say the least! In that short period of time I made two friends (one is Parisienne), became a regular at a great little coffee shop, frequented (food) markets with local produce/meats/cheeses etc. Cooked most of my own meals. Went with the flow and stayed open minded to experiences. Basically immersed myself in the local scene and didn’t visit one monument/museum/point of interest. One of the best travel experiences! Beautiful generous people and a romantic city whether you go it alone, with a friend/significant other, or you find someone while you’re there. ❤
Great advice. One thing I would add is to take the buses. Not the tourist buses, just the regular bus. If you are older and can't walk as much, you can take the bus from neighborhood to neighborhood and see more of Paris than on the Metro. We moved to France, in part to be closer to Paris (Nimes) and have been there three times since we came 18 months ago. We stay in the Port Orleans district. Not particularly cute but right near buses that go everywhere and the hotel is lovely and very reasonably priced.
i live in paris and guys this is it. this is THE guide
Best advice she gave - don’t try to see too much and eat French food breakfast lunch dinner 😋
4:37 . Mine, too. If you have time for only one museum, pick Musée d'Orsay!
We were in PARIS for 48 hours Last weekend! 😍 We stayed at the LOVELY 'Hotel Monge' in the Latin Quarter. It was wonderful and we really made the most of out two days!
Nice area and hopefully you saw the Arenes de Lutece ?
Yes We did and it was Incredible !! 🤩@@lisejacquelinerigault2575
@@lisejacquelinerigault2575 Yes we Did! ant it was AMAZING !!!
This is the 3rd video I have watched from Lucile and I love them all. Lots of great information told with humor and great backgrounds. And not so long that you waster your time in gory detail, like some people who seem to get paid by the minute. Keep up the great work, Lucile.
Thank you L. Your calm voice and massive amount of knowledge is amazing. Always !
I went to Bouillon Pigalle when I was in Paris a month ago! My Airbnb host recommended it to me. I was able to get dinner pretty late in the evening, and the food was great!
Oh that's nice :) Good recommendation!
Lucile, your channel is a breath of FRESH Air. Your soulful descriptions of Parisian life beckons the weary traveler and bolsters one's confidence to embrace Le Joie de Vie. 😘
Just got back from Paris last week and I 100% agree with you. A lot of tourists think they have to visit all the famous places in Paris. But the best part of Paris is the experience of the city itself. Walking around the neighbourhoods, spending your afternoon while drinking coffee at a small cafe - Trust me, you'll enjoy those small moments way more than the moment you saw the Eiffel Tower or the Monalisa at Louvre. If you are a foodie, then one street I will highly recommend is Cour du Commerce Saint-Andre. It’s a historical street full of restaurants. It’s often very crowded with both tourists and locals. The restaurants there require reservation due to high demand and also a bit expensive (around 30-40 €). But if you want to have best food in Paris, I'd highly recommend this place. And also WALK.. As much as you can! That's one of the best parts...
Do you have a particular restaurant in mind? We will be staying nearby in Oct.
Best 48 hours in Paris = 48 hours with toi :O haha, great video Lucile!
aww!!
Bobby parle comme lui etait Francais ! O la la !
You are both awesome!
This is really recommendable to all who visit Paris First time! I swear. These are totally I have done in Paris. I only have beautiful memory of Paris. walk, walk, drink coffee, eat baguette, just take look around everything.. I will visit again soon and I will do this again.
This is the very first time I've ever wanted to visit Paris. These are all the things I love to do... walk around and explore, hang out in parks, enjoy good food and art, avoid crowds and noise.
LOL, I'm a Brit but i lived in Paris when I was a student many, many years ago. And I said the same thing as you about the Eiffel Tower: the best thing about being on it is that you can't see it! That said, I lived high up in the Latin Quarter and I could see the top quarter of it from my window, and it was still cool to see it lit up at night, especially when they had the full searchlight thing going on.
I'm parisian and lived in this city, and I do agree, take your time, sit where you want to and enjoy. Specially for the bakeries. You can add Canal Saint Martin in spring and summer at he end of the afternoon. Take cheese, wine and have a good time
ah OUI le Canal Saint Martin est devenu très HYPE !
As a long-time Paris resident, I find that you give better advice than any of the sites done by Americans or the British that I have seen. You are the only one that mentions Bouillon Chartier.
I avoid the center of the Marais except for the gardens as there are too many people and it lost its original character long ago. A lot of streets have lost their character as traditional commerce has been replaced by trendy clothes stores, chain stores, etc and are now virtual deserts.
Two areas to avoid are Place St. Michel and the Champs-Elysées, just awful. The parks Montsouris and Buttes-Chaumont I enjoy very much. I also take visitors to Musée d'Orsay. Of course they first want to see the Post-Impressionists, so we go straight to the 5th floor. I try to interest them in Vuillard and Bonnard lower down too, but I insist on going to see Courbet. They like the large paintings, but I like to see their reaction to "Origine du Monde".
I loved seeing the city of Paris from the top of the Eiffel tower. Seeing the layout of the city streets, the architecture of the Many buildings packed in, the distance points of interest, the river. It was wonderful. On a clear day you can see so much. Getting food at local cafes, bakery's and markets was awesome.
I live in NYC and walk a lot every day and love your recommendations not to overdue and go crazy to see touristy places. Long lines and a lot of tourists kill the beauty of the attraction to me. I will recommend the same to people who wants to visit NYC too, walk a lot and you will discover the gems. Pick a neighborhood and explore. I'll be in paris in two weeks and looking forward to walk, eat and take it easy
Love your video Lucile! I've been to Paris a couple of times as a solo female. I'd been told a lot of negative stuff about Paris & advised not to go. But let me say, all I encountered was friendly & helpful people in every situation (including for business). First trip I stayed in the Marais & the 2nd on Grande Boulevarde. Food was incredible and cheaper when you go off the beaten track & stay away from touristic hubs. My absolute favourite part of town is Mont Martre (the other side). I must say though, that the beauty of Paris is not looking at it from a distance where all you really see are roof tops, but from close up where you see the intricacies of the magnificent architecture or the potted geraniums trailing across a balcony. It is truly a special place.
We are traveling to Paris with Kids in May. Shoudl w spend all 10 days around Paris or can spend 3 days in Cannes, Antibes and Nice?
@@living4foodntravel Doing both would be exhausting for the kids and there's plenty to see and do in Paris..
Having been living in Paris for a year now, I still enjoy Eiffel, I still take pics of it, however far nicer is the Seine, def à nice treasure! I walk 8-12 km a day and don’t even notice it. I’m def over all the museums. Well worth mentioning is the kangaroos in jardin des plants. I’ve made friends with my local shop owners and make an effort to eat French food. I absolutely love
Paris.
How things have changed in Paris since I was a child. You are correct that the streets are pretty empty in the morning. But growing up, the shopkeepers would open at dawn, close for three to four hours in the afternoon, and then open in the late afternoon and stay open until about 8pm. Also back then almost all the shops were literally open in the front. The charcuterie, the boucherie, the fromagerie. The only shops which always had a curtain wall front were the boulangeries. About French onion soup, which in France is just called soupe à l'oignon. It is already French by virtue of it being served in France. So for decades it was common to go to Au Pied de Couchon right next to Les Halles after going to the opera (back then it was always at the Palais Garnier). Les Halles was where the vendors from all over Paris would go to purchase or pick up their produce to sell at their stand, or venue. It was open all night and Au Pied de Couchon was also open all night at least until Les Halles stopped being to place to distribute produce. That function has been moved to the suburbs. They don't stay open 24 hours now, but close. They are open until 5am! So what did Au Pied de Couchon serve all these opera goers? Soup à l'oignon. And it is GOOD there! I suspect that French onion soup originated as food for peasants, but since it is so good, became part of the French lexicon of great food.
7:50 That hidden courtyard park... Wow, so neat! Thank for showing us! 🥰
Love that you encourage people to relax and enjoy the surroundings. That is my favorite way to travel.
Rick Steves shares this philosophy. I found him to provide good info when I worked and travelled in Europe for a year. I would recommend a guidebook by Rick Steves that I believe is titled “Paris through the back door” (maybe?!) that focuses on non tourist places. It is worth checking out. He also gives really good recommendations for where to stay, how to pack light etc
I went to Bouillon Pigalle last time I was in Paris and it was the best value meal of my entire six weeks in Europe.
As a Londoner I could give exactly the same advice as you gave for Paris, by just swapping out the locations, restaurants, museums.
It is funny we locals never seem to visit our own tourist destinations. I did not visit the Tower of London until I was 56.
If you live in France, take time and appreciate the beauty you're surrounded with.
It's break taking.
living in a Orwellain dicatatorship called Australia, Paris only seems like a dream right now. Your smile could light up Paris. Thanks for the video.
You know probably 95% of Parisians dream of going to Australia, yes? The grass is always greener etc... 😊
I would love to visit Australia..
I really appreciate the video. Coming to Paris in September for the first time in almost 40 years. My wife has never been so I am excited to show her what I remember. We are planning to visit the Louvre and take in a show at the Opera Bastille; the rest of our 4 days will be free form, looking for the small shops and restaurants to experience Paris like Parisian.
Thanks again for the advice.
Love to see you or les frenchies be in each other videos!
They seem really cool, maybe one day :)
Great tips. We just came back from 3 days in Paris and had to flee from the Quartier latin area due to the streams of tourists. Jardin du Luxembourg was such a nice haven and to sit near the fountain and watch people come by (Parisian families, old lonely ladies, couples, secret lovers) was the best part of our trip honestly. Had those beautiful green chairs been placed in Amsterdam, they would not have been there anymore the next morning; I really wonder how it is possible that they aren't stolen from this lovely park. Then we had really been looking forward to a Sunday Musée d'Orsay afternoon, but were shocked by the lines when arriving there. I don't recall ever having dealt with such lines during precious visits. Just tourists, tourists and more tourists. Luckily we stayed in Batignolles and really liked it there. Local people, a nice Sunday morning flea market, easy transport to the inner city. Next time we will definitely stay in nice arrondissements away from the city center again.
Je vais à Paris dans 3 semaines
Ce sera sur ma bucket list 😊
Trop cool :) passe un bon séjour à Paris !
I really love your authentic videos. Thanks and keep em coming!
As a veteran tourist, if you really want to see the Mona Lisa, start your day early. Buy your ticket and head straight for the painting. We do that whenever visiting a museum that has a “signature piece” and it works every time. In the Louvre, we were standing in front of the Mona Lisa 10 minutes after the museum opened. We spend almost 20 minutes where it was just my sister and I, and another couple. Then we spent the rest of the day (almost) enjoying beautiful art at the museum.
I was just so lucky to manage to watch your video before I headed to Paris two months later. It helps me a lot with my travel plan. Appreciate 🙏🏻
I just came back from Paris and saw this video a bit too late. Surprisingly I find myself doing most of the things in your video. I especially enjoy a few hours walking around Pere Lachaise neighbourhood and ended with a nice dinner in Ménilmontant area.
Thanks for the tips! I went a few weeks ago and it was great! We walked at least 6 miles or 10km every day and I even got a chance to run 10 miles or 16km along the Seine to take in all the sights along the way…lots to see on foot so you’ll never feel like walking is a major hassle in Paris
I am German and I love my dark wholegrain bread. But for breakfast or some kind of pre-breakfast, I prefer a black coffee and some sweet pastry. Sugar and caffeine in the morning just hits differently.
Visit in late autumn Christmas, which is is even better. No crowds. Beautiful decorations. Lower hotel prices. And everyone looks chic in winter wear; no one looks chic in cargo shorts with a fanny pack. The big department stores go overboard with their decorations.
Great video. I basically done this my last visit to Paris but we were in the 5th. It was amazing, plenty of food in Rue Mouffetard both in the mornings and evenings. Very historical but very vibrant.
You’re really in love with your home town. I love that 😊. I just realized that it’s about 30 years since I was in Paris as a student 😮. Need to get an update.
Paris is waiting for you :)
Merci beaucoup! Appreciate your tips. Our family is visiting Paris in a few weeks. We can’t wait to enjoy your beautiful city
Enjoy your trip :)
Thank you so much! I'll be solo backpacking Europe at the end of April, arriving in Amsterdam before Kings Day. Super nervous but also excited. Really going to take my time and enjoy everything. From public transport to little shops. Absorb as much culture as I can.
Oh that seems super fun!! Enjoy your trip :D
A visit is long overdue! I need to visit with my family. I loved living there as a student.
5:13 - that's the line they use for promoting Tour Montparnasse - the view is spectacular and _includes_ the Eiffel Tower, and it is not too crowded.
This video is totally my vibe. Any chance of one specifically about the sort of smaller galleries/museums you recommended as an alternative to the vastness and busy-ness of the Louvre? Please :-)
I like checking specific exibitions at le musée du luxembourg, l'atelier des lumières, quai branly, fondation Louis Vuitton. There's many independent galleries too, but I'm not knowledgeable enough to make a recommendation!
@@LucileHR Thanks for the info!
Check out the Picasso Museum. It was amazing how multi faceted the man really was.
Enjoyed it thoroughly.
Love this Lucile! Very helpful for me haha :)
When I came to Paris, I didn't even bother with the Louvre.
I visited the Musee d'Orsay. Which was amazing.
But the best museum imho was the Musee Marmottan-Monet.
While the Musee d'Orsay is in an old, rebuilt train station, the Musee Marmottan is basically an old Villa. A Villa that is full of Monet paintings.
They must have at least half of his water lily paintings there. It's my number one recommendation if you're into impressionist art like I am.
Have you been to Giverny? I’d love to visit some time but I’m coming in March, and it may be the best time.
Thank you for your video! I am planning a trip to France this year. Your videos are very helpful! 😊
Thank you so much! Your videos are so inspiring to me! ! ! ! ! ! I'm going to Paris next month! !
This is one of my dreams to visit and experience Paris! Hopefully one day I will make it come true!
I'm finally making my first tip to France this summer, a day tip to Lille from Belgium. Super excited. No plans, just walk around and take it all in. It'll be my third time in Europe. One day I'll spend some time in Paris, probably off-season when it's not as crowded.
Come to Paris in April-May, it's the best time :)
Lille is very beautiful…not Paris but it has its own charm and unique architecture,….you will l love it.
Beautiful Paris my next holiday destination ❤
La meilleure vue sur Paris est celle de l’Arc de Triomphe. Quand j'ai vécu a Paris aux années 70, il n'y avais jamais jamais de queue.
La chance ! :)
Amazing how well that mouse is trained to sit on your hand.
Ahhh! Love all these tips! Wish I watched this before I went! Thanks!
Agreed that Le Louvre is huge, crowded, and overwhelming for a short stay, and that a different museum might be more suitable. Musée d'Orsay is a good alternative for an art museum, but I'd also recommend La Musée de l'Armée (Les Invalides) for anyone who's into military history. It's one of the largest and best military history museums in the world, in a huge former palace, tickets are inexpensive, it's not too crowded, and there's an unbelievable amount of ground to cover because as we all know, the French were the dominant military power on the continent for centuries. I've never seen so many medieval and early modern arms and armor in one place before.
Lucile is the prettiest French youtuber by a long mile !
This was very good. Thanks for posting/sharing.
I've never been to Paris although I worked for a French company in the US many years ago.
It is so true! I am French and live in Florida and only went to the Eiffel Tower once as a little kid. I never cared about it until I moved to Orlando😂. I think it is overrated in my opinion but I do appreciate it more now that I live in the U.S. I never had onion soup until I went to a French restaurant at EPCOT😂. I love my pain au jambon et fromage en France seulement and much more good pastries😁Great video! Thank you.
Nobody thinks the things in their home town are special.
Lucile I’m so thrilled I found you. I am due in Paris on Oct 26th with a group of fellow artists with our art coach! This will be my first time to Paris! By the way I am a Lucille also with two l’s. Most people call me Lucy though. Thx for the great tips! I hope to walk everywhere as I have no idea how to use the transit system there. Agh! . A little nervous about that! Anyway, thanks for the great channel!
Oh another Lucille :) Have such a wonderful time in Paris!
Going to be visiting Paris in 2 weeks from Australia. The tips you have on your channel have been a massive help in giving us ideas for things to do , so thank you :-)
Oh thank you so much for watching!
Thanks for this video! I don't think I would want to go to Paris and be walking shoulder to shoulder with alot of tourists. It's nice to know where the great out of the way places are. ❤
love the videos and channel. Live in nyc but have been to Paris many times and what you say is so true. Best walking city in the world. Even better than New York. Merci beaucoup. Love Montmarte it’s such a cool neighborhood.
Great tips. I do have to say that if you are going to visit the Eiffel Tower- and nearly everyone does- you might as well go to the top and say you have done the whole thing.
I had onions soup at the end of a party, around 5am in the morning with french friends. First time. Not bad.
I sometimes go for a day to Paris and love it, I love the Batignolles and plaine Monceau area. I try to do one museum in the area where I am, and sit at a nice restaurant for lunch. Chez Janou near Pl Des Vosges is one of my favorites as I do not like the Chartiers. I was able to rent an 'Appart' for six months in the Canal St Martin area, and loved both the flat and the area. Visited many of Paris nooks and crannies, never tire of the city.
Love the tips to help to be chill! Paris is beautiful and old enough that it will meet you where you are. Cheers merci 🥂🇫🇷🇺🇸
She sounds different in 2x speed. Beautiful! ♥☺
So glad I found your channel! I am a big fan of Paris. Also a big fan of @LivingBobby! Have a great summer😊
I will visit Paris for the first time next month with my College. I'm so happy I discovered your channel due to Bobby. Keep the good work and thank you for all of the content!
When
@@leoniegraf161 I was there 2 weeks ago. It was an amazing experience!
À notre dernière visite de Paris en famille (nous sommes Québécois), nous avions une superbe boulangerie en face de notre Hôtel, la Maison Marnay. Tous les matins, petit déjeuner au croissants jambon fromage ou pains au chocolat, délicieux, et très abordable. Je recommande vivement... 😁
Great video I will be there in 5 days . Thanks for all the tip you given❤
Great advice, comme d'habitude 😘🇨🇵
Merciiii :)
Bonjour Lucile, You should do an ASMR video, you have a lovely relaxing voice. Bon Chance from Scotland.
Thank you for showing me around Paris! I really enjoyed the video and the places you went!
Thank you for watching :)
@@LucileHR You’re welcome
Your advice goes a long way ❤🎉😊 Merci🇫🇷
The video I would like to watch is the one where you explain how you and your boyfriend were able to travel around the world together for two years.
Oh, how I wish I'd bumped into this video 3 weeks ago.. :D Thank you for the advice, they all sound really great!
Guy Maupassant said he and his friends liked to have lunch underneath the Eiffel Tower because it was the only place in the city where you didn't have to look at it.
I love that story!
Nowadays Parisians say the same with Montparnasse tower and its rooftop. :)
@@ogamiitto8627we can’t go anymore to the rooftop apparently… I’m not gonna lie it would still look better in 2001 a space odyssey than in Paris 😢
The places Lucille are so beautiful,
me I would walk everywhere because I don't want to miss anything.and I would gain so much weight and then I would walk it all off.thank you for taken me on a wonderful journey in Paris .
Thank you so much for watching Sabrina :)
@@LucileHR your welcome have a great day.
I really really loved your video and the chill vibe you bring with it :) to really experience instead of hurry hurry hurry through the big crowds!
I want to make you aware that the sponsor you’ve chosen has kind of a bad record of not really providing quality care, so you might want to look into that - cause I see you mean well :)
Hi Lucile I just love your content its been the best in my research for Paris.
Unfortunately we didnt realise we booked 3 nights in Paris 8 days before the Olympics so its going to be crazy busy, so research and booking as much as we can in advance is going to be key for a smooth Trip.
The hotel we booked happens to be Batignolles near the Rome subway station, so im just loving all your local reccommendations are so close to our hotel!
How can you wolf down so much food and remain skinny? Admirable!
This was absolutely incredible.
Thank you!!
Fantastic content! Thanks Lucile!
Raclette is a Swiss dish, thank you very much.
Why the food portion is so small based on American standards. When I was in Paris some times I had to have two dinners for the night! One in the evening and late night when I became hungry again. But walked and loved every corner of Paris. I agree, just walking on the streets are pleasant experience.
I felt that way when I saw her feature the egg dish. I can eat two boiled eggs easily! 😂
love this! My spouse and I will be in the city of lights for just two night during the opening ceremonies but have no plans to attend them. We will be staying on the left bank. Please give us advice for our 48 hours considering we will be there during the likely most busy time. Thank you for this beautiful advice of the video! merci!
Allô Lucile! J'ai hâte de visiter durant les temps des fêtes 🎉 We will be staying in Strasbourg for the first 4 days then I love the feel of Batignolle so we found a beautiful small apartment near Clichy street. I'm a girl who loves design/fashion and good food. Lots of love from Quebec ❤ merci beaucoup pour tout.
P.S I will be booking a reservation at Bien Élevé